FAQ
I am new to fly fishing, what rod should I buy?
The most logical step, if you have the opportunity, is to test cast a range of rods and then purchase the rod that best suits your needs.
We manufacture performance fly rods for every level of angler, but usually recommend our entry level Vantage or Flight Series rods for beginners. The medium action Vantage Series rods provide an exceptional level of line connection and feel, allowing anglers of all abilities to cast better and more easily. At the other end of the action spectrum is the Flight Series. Designed with the analysis methods we developed for G5 Technology, the Flight Series rods combine a fast action taper with an incredibly smooth power curve. The Vantage and Flight series allow beginning anglers the chance to own the best rod on the market at prices suited to those who are just dipping their toes in the sport.
Certain models are available as complete outfits (rod, reel, line, rod/reel case).
How can I "test cast" a Sage rod before making a purchase?
Please contact your local Sage dealer or attend one of the many consumer fly fishing shows around the country. Sage dealers have knowledgeable staff and most have a casting are where you can test cast and compare our rods. During the show season, the Sage booth is always equipped with a full range of models and qualified personnel to answer questions and help with rod selection.
What is the difference between the Sage rod families?
In a general sense, we believe there are two types of anglers in the fly fishing world, those that like a "moderate" action rod or those who like a "fast" action rod. Fundamentally, the choice should be based on personal preference. For those anglers who prefer a more "moderate" action rod we offer the ZXL, the VT2 and the Vantage. Anglers who prefer a "fast" action rod would be more inclined to the actions of the TCX, TXL, Z-Axis, Xi3, BASS and Flight. Each family of rods will have a slightly different action so we strongly suggest you visit your local fly shop and test cast any rod you are considering. Have no fear, with so many different models and we believe that there is a rod for every occasion and every type of angler.
Can I use a heavier or lighter line than recommended for the rod?
We have carefully designed the rods to balance with the recommended line weight. For maximum performance, we suggest that you use the line weight recommended on the rod. That being said, it is possible to line up a rod by one size to load the rod more quickly and give you more feeling with less line outside of the tip. The downfall is that you may lose performance at longer distances. It's up to you.
Where do I find my Serial Number?
The serial number is located opposite the Sage logo on the butt section of the rod and is written in black ink. If you are having trouble seeing the number we recommend taking the rod out into natural light and rotating the blank to change the angle of view. Please note that the serial number will always be one or two letters followed by five numbers.
It is also worth noting that Sage Blanks do not carry serial numbers and therefore custom-built rods put together from blanks do not have this distinguishing mark.
What defines a Saltwater rod?
Any Sage rod with an anodized aluminum reel seat and fighting butt can be used safely in salt water. All Sage rods #7 and up come standard with Anodized Aluminum reel seats that combat corrosion, although we always recommend rinsing your gear down with fresh water after having used it in the saltwater environment. Many Sage #6 rods offer the option on the reel seat. Check with your dealer for details.
Do Sage blanks carry the Lifetime Warranty?
Yes, Sage blanks carry a lifetime warranty for the original owner. It is important to remember that we do not, however, warranty the work of the person who custom builds the rod. This must be negotiated separately.
Do you offer tours?
Yes, we do offer tours of our manufacturing facility. If you are interested in a tour, please call 1.800.533.3004 and make an appointment so that we can be sure that someone is available when you arrive. We recommend Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am as the best times to see activity in the manufacturing facility but this changes seasonally and so an appointment is recommended.
Have other questions or comments that you would like for us to address on this page?
Please contact us!
The most logical step, if you have the opportunity, is to test cast a range of rods and then purchase the rod that best suits your needs.
We manufacture performance fly rods for every level of angler, but usually recommend our entry level Vantage or Flight Series rods for beginners. The medium action Vantage Series rods provide an exceptional level of line connection and feel, allowing anglers of all abilities to cast better and more easily. At the other end of the action spectrum is the Flight Series. Designed with the analysis methods we developed for G5 Technology, the Flight Series rods combine a fast action taper with an incredibly smooth power curve. The Vantage and Flight series allow beginning anglers the chance to own the best rod on the market at prices suited to those who are just dipping their toes in the sport.
Certain models are available as complete outfits (rod, reel, line, rod/reel case).
How can I "test cast" a Sage rod before making a purchase?
Please contact your local Sage dealer or attend one of the many consumer fly fishing shows around the country. Sage dealers have knowledgeable staff and most have a casting are where you can test cast and compare our rods. During the show season, the Sage booth is always equipped with a full range of models and qualified personnel to answer questions and help with rod selection.
What is the difference between the Sage rod families?
In a general sense, we believe there are two types of anglers in the fly fishing world, those that like a "moderate" action rod or those who like a "fast" action rod. Fundamentally, the choice should be based on personal preference. For those anglers who prefer a more "moderate" action rod we offer the ZXL, the VT2 and the Vantage. Anglers who prefer a "fast" action rod would be more inclined to the actions of the TCX, TXL, Z-Axis, Xi3, BASS and Flight. Each family of rods will have a slightly different action so we strongly suggest you visit your local fly shop and test cast any rod you are considering. Have no fear, with so many different models and we believe that there is a rod for every occasion and every type of angler.
Can I use a heavier or lighter line than recommended for the rod?
We have carefully designed the rods to balance with the recommended line weight. For maximum performance, we suggest that you use the line weight recommended on the rod. That being said, it is possible to line up a rod by one size to load the rod more quickly and give you more feeling with less line outside of the tip. The downfall is that you may lose performance at longer distances. It's up to you.
Where do I find my Serial Number?
The serial number is located opposite the Sage logo on the butt section of the rod and is written in black ink. If you are having trouble seeing the number we recommend taking the rod out into natural light and rotating the blank to change the angle of view. Please note that the serial number will always be one or two letters followed by five numbers.
It is also worth noting that Sage Blanks do not carry serial numbers and therefore custom-built rods put together from blanks do not have this distinguishing mark.
What defines a Saltwater rod?
Any Sage rod with an anodized aluminum reel seat and fighting butt can be used safely in salt water. All Sage rods #7 and up come standard with Anodized Aluminum reel seats that combat corrosion, although we always recommend rinsing your gear down with fresh water after having used it in the saltwater environment. Many Sage #6 rods offer the option on the reel seat. Check with your dealer for details.
Do Sage blanks carry the Lifetime Warranty?
Yes, Sage blanks carry a lifetime warranty for the original owner. It is important to remember that we do not, however, warranty the work of the person who custom builds the rod. This must be negotiated separately.
Do you offer tours?
Yes, we do offer tours of our manufacturing facility. If you are interested in a tour, please call 1.800.533.3004 and make an appointment so that we can be sure that someone is available when you arrive. We recommend Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10am as the best times to see activity in the manufacturing facility but this changes seasonally and so an appointment is recommended.
Have other questions or comments that you would like for us to address on this page?
Please contact us!
